Patent application title: CHILD SEAT ARTICLE HOLDER

Abstract:

A system and method for supporting articles is generally provided for use,
with a seat, such as a child's safety seat or stroller, having a seat
surface and at least one restraining member that extends outwardly from
the seat surface. The system may be provided with a support member having
one or more pocket members for holding the articles. An aperture may be
formed through the support member through which the restraining member
may be passed to limit movement of the support member across the seat
surface when the system is placed on the seat. In one aspect, the pocket
members may at least partially depend from one or more side portions of
the seat, with or without the use of a support member.

Claims:

1. A system for supporting articles from a structure that includes a
seating area and at least one restraining member; the system comprising:a
generally flexible support member having a peripheral edge portion
including first and second end portions;said support member having an
aperture penetrating said support member between said first and second
end portions; andat least a first pocket member (i) having an open upper
end portion in communication with at least one open interior compartment
and (ii) being operatively coupled with the peripheral edge portion of
said support member.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein:said aperture is shaped to permit at
least a portion of the restraining member to be passed through the
aperture when said support member is place along an upper surface of the
seating area.

3. The system of claim 1 further comprising:a second pocket member (i)
having an open upper end portion in communication with at least one open
interior compartment and (ii) being operatively coupled with the second
end portion of said support member.

4. The system of claim 1 further comprising:a pocket divider (i) having
first and second end portions operatively coupled with at least one
interior surface of said first pocket member and (ii) dividing said open
interior pocket within said first pocket member into a plurality of open
interior compartments.

5. The system of claim 4 wherein:the second end portion of said pocket
divider is selectively, removably coupled with an interior surface of
said first pocket member.

6. The system of claim 1 further comprising:a semi-rigid insert (i)
disposed within the open interior compartment of said first pocket member
and.(i) at least partially defining a shape of said first pocket member.

7. The system of claim 6 wherein:said insert is (i) removably positioned
within the interior compartment of said pocket member, adjacent a bottom
end portion of said pocket member, and (ii) having an upwardly faced
recess.

8. The system of claim 6 wherein:said insert is comprised of a moisture
resistant material.

9. The system of claim 1 wherein:said first pocket member is selectively,
removably coupled with said support member.

10. The system of claim 1 whereinsaid support member is comprised of a
moisture absorbent material.

11. The system of claim 1 wherein:said first pocket member is comprised of
a moisture resistant material.

12. In combination:a seat device including a seat surface and at least one
restraining member extending outwardly from the seat device, adjacent the
seat surface; andan article support system, comprising:a generally
flexible support member having a peripheral edge portion including first
and second end portions;said support member having an aperture
penetrating said support member between its first and second end
portions; andat least a first pocket member (i) having an open upper end
portion in communication with at least one open interior compartment and
(ii) being operatively coupled with the first end portion of said support
member;said support member being adjacent, and extending transversely
across, said seat surface whereby said first pocket member depends from a
side portion of said seat device;at least a portion of said at least one
restraining member extending through the aperture in said support member.

13. The system of claim 12 further comprising:a second pocket member (i)
having an open upper end portion in communication with at least one open
interior compartment and (ii) being operatively coupled with the second
end portion of said support member.

14. The system of claim 13 wherein:said first pocket member and said
second pocket member being removably secured with said support member.

15. The system of claim 12 further comprising,a pocket divider (i) having
first and second end portions operatively coupled with at least one
interior surface of said first pocket member and (ii) dividing said open
interior pocket within said first pocket member into a plurality of open
interior compartments.

16. The system of claim 15 wherein:the second end portion of said pocket
divider is selectively, removably coupled with an interior surface of
said first pocket member.

17. In combination:a seat device that includes a frame that supports a
seat surface; andan article support system, comprising:a generally
flexible support member having a peripheral edge portion including first
and second end portions;said support member having at least one
mechanical fastener releasably securing said support member with said
seat device; andat least a first pocket member (i) having an open upper
end portion in communication with at least one open interior compartment
and (ii) being operatively coupled with the peripheral edge portion of
said support member;said support member being adjacent, and extending
substantially transversely across said seat surface whereby said first
pocket member depends from said seat device.

18. The combination of claim 17 further comprising:a second pocket member
(i) having an open upper end portion in communication with at least one
open interior compartment and (ii) being removably coupled with the
peripheral edge portion of said support member.

19. The combination of claim 17 wherein:said support member is comprised
of a moisture absorbent material and said first pocket member is
comprised of a moisture resistant material.

20. A method for supporting articles, the method comprising:providing a
structure including a seating area and at least one restraining
member;providing an article support system comprising:a generally
flexible support member having a peripheral edge portion including first
and second end portions;said support member having an aperture
penetrating said support member between said first and second end
portions; andat least a first pocket member (i) having an open upper end
portion in communication with at least one open interior compartment and
(ii) being operatively coupled with the peripheral edge portion of said
support member;positioning said support member along an upper surface of
the seating area whereby said first pocket member is supported along said
structure, at least partially outside the seating area of said structure;
andpositioning said at least one restraining member at least partially
through the aperture in said support member.

21. The method of claim 20 further comprising:positioning a person in a
seated position on top of said support member and the seating area of
said structure; andplacing one or more articles within open interior
compartment of said first pocket member.

22. The method of claim 20 further comprising:operatively coupling a
second pocket member (i) having an open upper end portion in
communication with at least one open interior compartment and (ii) being
operatively coupled with the second end portion of said support member.

23. The method of claim 20 further comprising:operatively coupling a
pocket divider, having first and second end portions, with interior
surfaces of said first pocket member whereby a plurality of open interior
compartments are defined within said first pocket member.

24. The method of claim 23 further comprising:removably coupling the
second end portion of said pocket divider with an interior surface of
said first pocket member.

25. The method of claim 20 further comprising:providing a semi-rigid
insert (i) within the open interior compartment of said first pocket
member and (i) at least partially defining a shape of said first pocket
member.

26. The method of claim 25 wherein:said insert is removably positioned
within the interior compartment of said pocket member, adjacent a bottom
end portion of said pocket member;said insert being formed to have an
upwardly faced recess.

27. The method of claim 25 wherein:said insert is at least partially
formed from a moisture resistant material.

28. The method of claim 20 wherein:said first pocket member is removably
coupled with said support member.

29. The method of claim 20 wherein:said support member is at least
partially formed from of a moisture absorbent material.

30. The method of claim 20 wherein:said first pocket member is at least
partially formed from a moisture resistant material.

31. The method of claim 20 further comprising:a flap that extends
outwardly from the peripheral edge portion of said support member,
between said first and second end portions; andpositioning said support
member so that said flap extends outwardly from a rearward end portion of
said seating area.

32. The method of claim 31 further comprising:positioning said flap so
that it extends at least partially up a surface of a back support of the
structure.

33. The system of claim 1 wherein:said support member is shaped to have a
flap that extends outwardly from a rearward portion of said support
member, between said first and second end portions.

34. The combination of claim 12 wherein:said support member is shaped to
have a flap that extends outwardly from a rearward portion of said
support member, between said first and second end portions;said support
member being positioned so that said flap extends at least partially up a
surface of a back support of the seat device.

[0002]It has often been desirable, if not necessary, to bring feeding
bottles, cups, toys, books, and the like when traveling with children.
For example, when traveling with children in a motor vehicle, the
children have frequently asked the driver to hand the children one or
more of such articles. This has not only posed an inconvenience to the
driver, but has also proven to create potentially hazardous conditions,
as the driver has had to reach into the rearward portions of the vehicle
while driving. Further, the articles have frequently become loose within
the cabin of the vehicle, rolling around and becoming not only
potentially dangerous impediments to the driver's ability to properly
control the vehicle but projectiles in the event of a sudden stop or
accident.

[0003]Some prior storage devices for use with a vehicle seat have
generally included a storage device with a storage container, such as a
bag or pouch, that has had to be attached to a structural feature of a
front seat within the vehicle. Such storage devices have been designed to
store telecommunications equipment, such as the storage device disclosed
by Dillion, Jr. et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 6,149,229. Unfortunately, such a
storage device was impractical for use with a child safety seat. The
Dillion, Jr. device necessitated mechanical fastening members to secure
the device with a seat frame, beneath the seat cushion. Another
previously described storage device for use in a vehicle included a
saddle bag that was hung over the back of the vehicle seat, as taught by
Greaves, in U.S. Pat. No. 2,979,098, and Bibb et al., in U.S. Patent
Publication No. US 2007/0018487. However, these devices were also
impractical for use with a child's safety seat as they were designed to
hang from the top portion of the back support of a chair, disposing the
pocket behind the seat. In another described method of use, the pocket
was suspended from the chair, behind the legs of the individual seated in
the chair. Such positioning of the storage pocket would not have been
accessible to a child seated in a child's safety seat, with its
restraining straps secured across the front of the child.

[0004]Other prior storage devices for use with child safety seats have
included devices that were attached beneath the cushion of an arm rest on
the safety seat, such as disclosed by Kain, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,467,839
and 5,615,925. However, these designs required specific coupling features
formed into the frame of the seat that engaged specific mounting features
on the storage devices. As such, the devices were not universally useable
with a wide array of child's safety seats. Other designs, taught by Fair,
in U.S. Patent Publication No. US 2006/0049674, and Tipton, in U.S.
Patent Publication No. 2005/0200169, positioned mounting platforms of the
storage devices between the safety seat and a vehicle seat on which the
safety seat was positioned. As such, the storage devices were not easily
or practically removed from, or engaged with, the child's safety seat
without first disengaging the child's safety seat from the vehicle seat.
Additional, storage devices have been presented for use with for use with
an umbrella stroller that included an organizing apparatus, which hung
over a back member of the stroller, such as that disclosed by Makoski, in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,824,168. However, this device was secured with straps to
the frame of the stroller so that the storage pockets hung from the top
portion of the stroller, behind the seat. Such a device was not
reasonably useable with a child's safety seat.

SUMMARY

[0005]This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a
simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed
Description. This Summary, and the foregoing Background, is not intended
to identify key aspects or essential aspects of the claimed subject
matter. Moreover, this Summary is not intended for use as an aid in
determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006]Various embodiments of an article holder and methods for use with
various styles of child's safety scats, strollers and other such devices,
are presented. The system is generally provided with a support member
having one or more pocket members for holding the articles. In one
aspect, the pocket members may at least partially depend from one or more
side portions of the seat or other device to which they are secured.
Various aspects of the system allow children to have efficient access to
miscellaneous items, such as bottles, cups, snacks, books, toys and the
like while they travel.

[0007]In various embodiments, the support member may be coupled with one
or more pockets so that, when positioned in a seating area such as the
seating area in a car seat or stroller, the support member traverses the
seating area and positions the pockets against outer side portions of the
seating area. This configuration may facilitate the ability of a child to
efficiently access the at least one pocket while seating in the seating
area.

[0008]It is contemplated that the size and shape of each pocket can, if
desired, vary depending upon the needs of the user. The ability to adjust
the size and/or shape of the pocket may allow the user to use the article
storage system to store and secure multiple types of articles. In certain
embodiments, the pocket may be of a depth that can allow a feeding bottle
or drinking cup to be secured while the motor vehicle is operating and,
if desired, also allow easy access to the bottle or cup by the child or
other user. The pocket may be configured to allow books to be easily
secured during travel. In some embodiments, the pockets may be formed to
allow one or more various toys to be secured during travel.

[0009]In certain embodiments, one or more pockets may include a divider,
such as a divider formed of flexible or non-flexible materials. The use
of a flexible material may allow the system to be easily compacted when
not in use or to allow the compartments to vary in size, depending on the
size of the various objects inserted into the pocket. The use of a
divider may also allow multiple items to be secured in a single pocket.
In some embodiments, a divider may be used to separate an ice pack from a
drink.

[0010]In certain embodiments, the one or more pockets may be secured to
the child seat or stroller via a fastening mechanism. The fastening
mechanism may be one of hook and loop fastening material, snaps, and
other like fasteners. The fastening mechanism may be used in lieu of the
support member. The fastening mechanism may be used in addition to the
support member in which such mechanism facilitates the positioning and
securing of the one or more pockets along the outer edge of the seating
area

[0011]In certain embodiments, one or more pockets may be secured to the
support member using a fastening mechanism. This feature may allow a user
to position the pocket as desired as well as allow the type of pocket to
be changed depending upon the user's desires and circumstances at hand.
The system may include a plurality of pockets each of which is shaped and
sized to receive a particular type of object. In some embodiments, a user
may easily attach and de-attach the pockets as desired.

[0012]In certain embodiments, the at least one pocket may include an
insert that assists in the stabilizing the pocket. The insert may include
plastic or metal and be positioned in the bottom of the pocket. The
insert may be a plastic or metal insert that is in the shape capable of
receiving a drink cup or bottle. In some embodiments, the insert may be
covered with the material utilized to form the pocket.

[0013]In certain embodiments, the support member may be used to secure the
article holder system within the seating area. The support member may be
formed of flexible material. If desired, the support member may be formed
with a flexible material covered with fabric.

[0014]The flexible, or other, material may provide rigidity to the support
member while the fabric covering may provide comfort to the occupant. In
certain embodiments, the flexible material may be a non-woven fabric,
such as PELLON®. If desired, the size and shape of the support member
may vary depending upon the needs of the user.

[0015]In certain embodiments, the length of the support member may be
altered depending on the size of the seating area. The support member may
also be secured to the seating area via a fastening mechanism such as
hook and loop fastening material, such as VELCRO®.

[0016]In certain embodiments, the support member may include an aperture.
The aperture may be of a size sufficient to allow a portion of a safety
belt to be inserted through such aperture. The presence of an aperture
may facilitate the use of the article storage system with a car seat or
stroller. Such a structural arrangement may be used to limit movement of
the support member across the seat or other device to which it is
secured.

[0017]In some embodiments, the support member and/or pockets may be
constructed from flexible material, including washable fabric,
water-repellant fabric, and other materials that may allow the system to
be efficiently cleaned. This feature may allow the system to be easily
cleaned and maintained.

[0018]The use of a flexible material may also be less likely to cause
injury to a user such as in a car accident when compared to prior storage
devices constructed of more rigid materials, including plastic. The use
of flexible material may allow the article holder system to be easily
stored and carried, such as in a stroller when not in use.

[0019]In some embodiments, the support member and the pockets may be
formed from different materials. In certain embodiments, the support
member may be covered with a material that is gentle to a child's skin
while the pockets are formed of a durable, water-repellant fabric. The
use of a non-irritating material may be desirable for it may allow the
system to be used by multiple users, including children with sensitive
skin.

[0020]In certain methods of use, the support member may be placed in a
desired seating area, such as that found in a child's safety seat,
stroller and the like. The aperture present in the support member may be
aligned with a safety harness present in the seating area so that the
harness may travel through such aperture. A user may place the occupant
into the seating area or the occupant of the seating area may enter the
seating area without assistance from another. The harness may be threaded
through the aperture and the occupant may be secured into the seat.

[0021]In certain embodiments, the user may align one or more pockets with
respect to the seating area prior to the occupant sitting in the seating
area or after the occupant enter such area. In certain embodiments in
which the pockets have additional fastening mechanisms, such mechanisms
may be fastened to further provide support to the pocket structures.
Articles may be placed into the pockets either before the occupant
occupies the seating area or after. In certain embodiments, dividers
and/or inserts may be placed into the pocket structures as desired. The
article holder system may be removed from the seating area once the
occupant has exited such area. The article holder system may be stored
for use at a later time or cleaned, as desired.

[0022]In certain methods of manufacture, construction of the support
member may include cutting a base material to a size that will allow the
desired seat area to be covered. In certain aspects, the base material
may be cut to approximately 23 inches in length and approximately between
6 to 18 inches wide. At least one of the width or length of the base
material may be determined by the size of the seating area. At least one
of the width and length of the base material may be determined by the
amount of the seating area one desires to cover. In certain embodiments,
the base material may be approximately 10 inches in length and
approximately 6 inches in width, weighing approximately 0.5 ounces to 1.0
ounces. In another embodiment, the base material may be approximately 12
inches in width, weighing approximately 1.0 to 1.5 ounces.

[0023]In some methods of manufacture, the support member may also be
formed by folding the material inside out and fastening the edges of the
material lengthwise. The material may be folded in half inside out and
the edges of the material sewn together lengthwise. The material also may
be inverted a second time so that the finished side may be presented to
the user.

[0024]In certain methods of manufacture, the support member may include a
flexible material to provide stability or rigidity to the support member.
The flexible material may include a non-woven fabric such as PELLON®.
The flexible material may be plastic or other material, in whole or in
part.

[0025]The dimensions of the flexible material may vary according to the
circumstances presented and intended uses of the system. The flexible
material may be approximately 12 inches in length in some embodiments.
The flexible material may be approximately half the width of the base
material. In certain aspects, the flexible material may be inserted into
a base material. This may allow the support member additional rigidity
while still providing a comfortable surface on which the user may sit.

[0026]In certain embodiments, the flexible material may be inserted in the
base material so that an equivalent amount of material may be present on
either end of the base material. If desired, a flexible material may be
used that includes an adhesive. The adhesive may be heat-activated
adhesive that when activated allows the flexible material to adhere to
the base material. This may also provide additional rigidity to the
support member. An iron may be used to activate the heat sensitive
adhesive. The heat sensitive adhesive may be activated after the flexible
material is inserted into the base material, such as by use of an iron.

[0027]In certain embodiments, the support member may be manufactured to
include an aperture, such as an aperture to receive a seat belt or other
type of harness used to secure an occupant within a certain seating area.
The aperture may be created by folding the support member, such as in
half and making a cut in the member in the desired size. The cut may be
approximately 4 inches in length and approximately 3 inches from the
front of the base material. In some embodiments, the cut may be sewn such
as Button sewn so that a harness may travel through the aperture.

[0028]In certain embodiments, the article holder may be manufactured by
producing one or more pockets, which may be created by cutting material
such as fabric to the desired size and shape.

[0029]In some embodiments, two pockets may be formed by cutting 8 front
and back pieces of fabric 6 inches wide by 41/2 inches tall, 8 side
pieces 3 inches wide by 41/2 inches tall, 4 bottom pieces 6 inches wide
by 3 inches tall, and 4 insert pockets 33/4 inches by 33/4 inches. The
material may be cut to provide a seam allowance of 5/8 inches. In some
embodiments, each assembled pocket may weigh approximately 3.5 ounces to
4.0 ounces. As such, one embodiment of the system that includes a support
member and one pocket member may weight approximately 4.0 ounces to 5.0
ounces. Another embodiment of the system that includes two pocket members
and a support member may weigh 7.5 ounces to 9.0 ounces. Inserts may be
formed to fit within the pockets. The insert may be formed by cutting
plastic or a plastic-coated metal. An insert may be formed for each
pocket, such as by cutting plastic or plastic-coated metal to be
approximately 3 inches wide and 31/2 inches tall.

[0030]In certain embodiment, a pocket may be formed by fastening the
various pieces together. The order in which the pieces are secured may he
varied. A back piece may be sewn to two side pieces, a front piece may
then be sewn to the two side pieces, and a bottom piece may be sewn to
the four pieces. A pocket may be inverted and attached to another pocket
that has not been inverted. The two pocket structures may be fastened,
such as by stitching, so that one long side remains unsecured (e.g.,
opened). The pieces of material may then be inverted while pushing one
piece of material into the other, thereby forming a lined pocket. The
edge of the pocket structure may be finished by sewing the edge. The edge
may be finished while leaving one side of the edge open to attach the
pocket onto the base material. In another embodiment, an additional line
of stitching may be made on the pocket, for example, approximately one 1
below the first line of stitching while still leaving the one side open.
In some embodiments, flexible material such as elastic may be inserted
through the opening between the two sewn lines. The flexible material may
be pulled slightly to gather the fabric on the side. The flexible
material may be secured in the pocket. The flexible material may be
secured by fastening the corner where the flexible material was inserted,
such as by use of a stitch. The flexible material may also be inserted
into the front and other side pieces of the pocket structure.

[0031]In certain embodiments, a method of manufacturing the system may
include securing the one or more pockets to the support member. The at
least one pocket may be secured by sewing the pockets onto an end of the
base material utilized to construct the support member.

[0032]In particular embodiments, an insert material may be incorporated
into the pockets. This material may be incorporated by sewing inverted
insert material while leaving at least one side open to insert the insert
material such as a plastic insert. Once sewn the insert material may be
inverted again so that the finished side may be exposed to the user. In a
certain embodiment, the insert material may be attached to a pocket by
fastening the insert material (such as with stitching) to an inverted
pocket structure. This may be performed by sewing the opposite side of
the insert material that is open to the middle of the back of the pocket
and then, inserting the insert into the open end and securing the
insertion by fastening the opening shut (such as by stitching the opening
closed).

[0033]In certain embodiments, additional fastening means may be used to
secure the insert. Hook and loop fastening material may be attached to an
insert, such as a 3 inch piece of approximately 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch hook
and loop fastening material. The non-fastening side of the fastening
material may be sewn to end of an insert while the fastening side of the
fastening material may be then sewn to the middle of the other side of an
inverted pocket. The pocket may then be inverted again so that the
finished side of the material may be seen by the user and the insert
divider may then be connected to pocket structure via connecting the two
pieces of hook and loop fastening material to each other.

[0034]In certain embodiments, a method of manufacturing the system may
include adding additional material to the side of the base material that
contacts the hack of the seating area. This feature may allow for an
easier clean, for example, a user may just pull out the article holder
system and wipe it off or wash it very easily. This feature may also act
as a protector of the seating area.

[0035]It is contemplated that the system may be used with not only a car
seat and stroller, but other similar seating areas such as those provided
in wheel chairs, shopping carts, push cars, wagons, sit and stands, high
chairs and booster seats. In some embodiments, variations of the system
may be made to fit any seat by adding fasteners such as snaps, hook and
loop fastening material, hook and eye or buckles to the side of the base
material and have the pockets individually attached to the desired size.

[0036]These and other aspects of the present system and method will be
apparent after consideration of the Detailed Description and Figures
herein. It is to be understood, however, that the scope of the invention
shall be determined by the claims as issued and not by whether given
subject matter addresses any or all issues noted in the Background or
includes any features or aspects recited in this Summary.

DRAWINGS

[0037]Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present
invention, including the preferred embodiment, are described with
reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer
to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.

[0038]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an article holder
system and one manner in which the article holder system could be used
with a seat device, such as a stroller.

[0039]FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of an article
holder system and one manner in which the article holder system could be
used with a seat device, such as a child's safety seat.

[0040]FIG. 3 is a top, plan view of one embodiment of the article holder
system having a pair of pocket members coupled with a support member.

[0041]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the article
holder system that incorporates the use of dividers within the pocket
members for subdividing the interior compartments of the pocket members.

[0042]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the article
holder system and one manner in which the article holder system could be
used with a seat device, such as a stroller, and secured in position with
a restraining member from the stroller.

[0043]FIG. 6 depicts a front elevation view of one manner in which an
article holder system may be coupled with a seat device while an
individual simultaneously occupies the seat, device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044]Embodiments are described more fully below with reference to the
accompanying figures, which form a part hereof and show, by way of
illustration, specific exemplary embodiments. These embodiments are
disclosed in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to
practice the invention. However, embodiments may be implemented in many
different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the
embodiments set forth herein. The following detailed description is,
therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0045]With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a system 10 is provided for
supporting various articles from a seat structure that includes a seating
area 12 and at least one restraining member 14. While it is contemplated
that the seat structure may be encountered in a nearly limitless number
of different forms, some exemplary structures include child safety seats,
strollers, highchairs, wheelchairs, and the like. In such examples a
frame is provided that supports and orients a seating area 12 in a manner
that supports an occupant. One or mote restraining members 14 may be
provided that are designed to secure the occupant within the seating area
12. Examples, which should not be deemed as limiting, include waist
straps, shoulder straps and the like. Each such restraining member 14
will be generally secured with the seat structure and provide lengths
that may be secured at least partially around an occupant. Free end
portions of the restraining member 14 are typically provided with a
multi-component fastener 16 that may have its components, such as a three
and two-point latching assemblies having male and female-oriented clips,
buckles and the like, secured with one another. In a common orientation,
a crotch strap 18 is provided as a part of the restraining member 14 and
will be coupled with, and extend upwardly from, the seat structure,
adjacent or within the seating area 12. In this manner, the crotch strap
18 may be easily passed between the legs, and in front of the crotch area
of, an occupant who is seated in the seating area 12. Such crotch straps
typically have a free end portion that supports a component of the
multi-component fastener, such as a buckle, that enables the crotch strap
18 to securably engage other portions of the multi-component fastener 16
located at the free end portions of other straps, such as waist and
shoulder straps.

[0046]With reference to FIG. 3, the system 10 may be provided with a
generally flexible support member 20, having a first end portion 22, a
second end portion 24, a rearward end portion 26 and a forward end
portion 28. The support member 20 may be provided in a variety of
different shapes and sizes to accommodate the intended use of the system
10. However, in various embodiments, the support member will have a
generally elongated shape extending between the first end portion 22 and
the second end portion 24. The length of the support member 20 will, in
many embodiments extend substantially along a width of the seating area
12 and, in other embodiments extend beyond side portions of the seating
area 12 so that the first end portion 22 and second end portion 24 may
depend from the side portions of the seating area 12. In one aspect, the
rearward end portion 26 of the support member may be provided to
terminate short of a rearward edge portion of the seating area 12. In
some embodiments, however, the rearward end portion 26 may be provided to
extend beyond the rearward edge portion of the seating area 12 so that a
portion of the rearward end portion 26 may depend from the rearward end
portion of the seating area 12 or extend at least partially up a surface
of a back support 30 of the seat structure. In this orientation, the
support member may at least partially serve as a crumb catching device
that helps to keep the seating area 12 clean. In some embodiments, the
forward end portion 28 of the support member 12 may be provided to extend
short of a forward edge portion of the seating area 12. However, in other
embodiments, the forward end portion 28 of the support member may be
provided to extend close to, or beyond, the forward edge portion of the
seating area 12. In this manner a greater coverage of the seating area 12
may be attained, possibly contributing to the comfort of the occupant and
protection of the seat area 12 from spills and the like.

[0047]In some embodiments, the support member 20 is formed to have an
aperture 32 formed through the support member 20, between the fist end
portion 22, second end portion 24, rearward end portion 26 and forward
end portion 28. In one aspect, the aperture 32 is shaped and sized to
permit at least a potion of the restraining member 14 to be passed
through the aperture 32 when the support member 20 is placed along the
seating area 12 of the seat structure. In one aspect, the aperture 32 is
shaped, and positioned along the support member 12, to accept the free
end portion of the crotch strap 18 there through. Accordingly, it is
contemplated that the aperture 32 should be large enough to permit the
free end portion of the crotch strap 18 to pass there through. However,
it is further contemplated that the aperture 32 could be sized and shaped
to approximate the width and thickness of the crotch strap 18. In this
manner a relatively snug engagement between the aperture 32 and the free
end portion of the crotch strap 18 may be attained and movement of the
support member 20 across the seating area 12 may be limited. In other
embodiments, portions of other straps, such as waist or shoulder straps
may be passed through the aperture 32 in a manner similar to that
described with respect to the crotch strap 18. In such instances it is
contemplated that the size, location, and number of apertures 32 may vary
to accommodate the circumstances presented, including the shape and
nature of the seat structure as well as the manner in which an individual
will occupy the seating area 12. In another aspect, the support member 20
may also be secured to the seating area 12 using one or more mechanical
fasteners, such as hook and loop material, snaps, buttons, and the like.

[0048]With reference to FIG. 4, the system 10 may be provided with one or
more pocket members 34. The pocket members 34 may be provided in a wide
array of shapes and sizes to accommodate the needs of nearly any
situation presented. However, the pocket members 34 will generally be
provided with an open upper end portion 36 that is in communication with
at least one open interior compartment 38. One or more sidewalls 40 will
extend between the open upper end portion 36 and a bottom end portion 42
of the pocket members 34. It is contemplated that the open upper end
portion 36 and the one or more interior compartments 38 may be shaped and
sized to accommodate a wide array of articles. It is further contemplated
that the size and shape of the open upper end portion 36 and the one or
more interior compartments 38 may be provided to accommodate specific
articles, such as books, drink containers, and the like. While the open
upper end portion 36 of the pocket members 34 may be provided in an open
and exposed fashion, thus promoting the ease with which articles may be
inserted and removed from the pocket members 34, one or more enclosure
members may be provided. In some embodiments, enclosure flaps may be
provided to cover the open upper end portions 36. In these embodiments,
mechanical fasteners, such as buttons, snaps, zippers, magnets,
hook-and-loop materials, and the like may be employed to secure a free
end portion of such enclosure flaps with a sidewall 40 of the pocket
members 34. Similarly, the open upper end portion 36 of the pocket
members 34 may be collapsed and closed on itself and, optionally, secured
using a mechanical fastener, such as those previous described.

[0049]With reference to FIG. 4 at least one divider 44, having a first end
portion 46 and second end portion 48, may be coupled at its end portions
with interior surface of a pocket member 34. In one embodiment, the first
end portion 46 and second end portion 48 may be secured to opposite or
adjacent inner surfaces of an interior compartment 38 to define a
plurality of open interior compartments 38 within a pocket member 34. A
height of the divider 44 may be varied to create a division that is
shallow or deep with respect to the interior compartment 38. In some
embodiments, either or both of the first end portion 46 or the second end
portion 48 may be removably engagable with an interior surface of the
pocket member 34. Mechanical fasteners, such as hook-and-loop materials,
snaps, buttons and the like may be used for releasably engaging the end
portions of the divider 44 with the interior surfaces of the pocket
member 34. In some embodiments, multiple dividers 44 may be used within a
single pocket member to create a nearly limitless number of different
compartment arrangements. The use of one or more dividers 44 may allow
multiple items to be secured in a single pocket member 34. For instance,
the divider 44 may be used to separate an ice pack from a drink.

[0050]In some embodiments, the one or more pocket members 34 may include
an insert 50 that assists in the stabilizing the pocket member 34 and
defining its shape. The insert 50 may be formed form a variety of
materials, such as plastic or metal, to present a desired level of
rigidity. As such, the insert 50 may be used to reinforce one or more
sidewalls 40 and/or a bottom end portion 42 of a pocket member 34. In one
aspect, the insert 50 may be positioned in the bottom of a pocket member
34. In such an embodiment, the insert 50 may be configured to have a
recess or other retaining structure that is shaped and sized to receive a
drink container. The insert 50 may be covered with the material used to
form the pocket or may be left uncovered. As such, it is contemplated
that the insert 50 may provide the pocket member 34 with a degree of
protection, serving as a barrier from moisture or spills of various
detritus. A relatively flat or otherwise shaped insert 50 may also be
associated with one or more dividers 44, where support or specific shape
definition is desired.

[0051]With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the system 10 may, in some
embodiments, be provided with a support member 20 and one or more pocket
members 34. In one aspect, the one or more pocket members may be secured
with the first end portion 22 and second end portion 24 so that, when the
system 10 is positioned in a seating area 12, such as the seating area in
a child's safety seat or a stroller, the support member traverses the
seating area 12 and positions the one or more pocket members 34 adjacent
the outer side portion of the seating area 12. In this manner, the one or
more pocket members 34 depend from the opposite end portions of the
support member 12 and the seat structure. This configuration may
facilitate the ability of an occupant of the seat structure to
efficiently access the one or more pocket, members 34 while seated in the
seating area 12. With reference to FIG. 3, an embodiment of the system 10
is depicted as being used with a stroller.

[0052]Where a support member 20 is used to secure one or more pocket
members 34 adjacent the seating area 12, it is contemplated that the
pocket members 34 may be secured to nearly any peripheral edge portion of
the support member 20. While the Figures depict a common position, where
the pocket members 34 are secured to the opposite first and second end
portions 22 and 24, instances are contemplated where the pocket members
may be secured with the rearward edge portion 26 or forward edge portion
28, depending on the orientation of the seating area 12 and the seat
structure itself. Other factors contributing to the position of the
pocket members with respect to the support member 20 may also include the
total number of desired pocket members 34. In one aspect, the pocket
members may be permanently secured to, or integrally formed with, the
support member 20 by sewing, gluing, or other conventional methods.
However, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to temporarily secure
the pocket members 34 with the support member 20, such as with mechanical
fasteners that include hook and loop material, snaps, buttons, zippers,
and the like. Regardless of the manner of attachment selected, the pocket
members may be secured to the support member 20 at nearly any point
between the open upper end portion 36 and the bottom end portion 42,
depending on the desired final position of the pocket members 34 with
respect to the seating area 12 and its occupant.

[0053]In some embodiments, it may be desirable to secure the one or more
pocket members 34 with the seat structure without a support member 20. In
such instances, mechanical fasteners, such as hook and loop material,
snaps, buttons, straps, and other like fasteners may be used to provide
temporary but secure engagement between the structures. Such fasteners
may also be used in addition to the support member 20. For instance, one
or more fastening mechanisms may be used in addition to the support
member 20 in which such mechanisms facilitate the positioning and
securing of the one or more pocket members 34 along the outer edge of the
seating area 12. This feature may also allow a user to position the one
or more pocket members 34 as desired as well as allow the type of pocket
to be changed, depending upon the user's needs. The system 10 may further
include a plurality of pocket members 34, each of which being shaped and
sized to receive a particular type of article.

[0054]With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, at least one method of use calls
for a user to place the support member 20 in a desired seating area 12,
such as that found in a child's safety seat, stroller and the like. Where
an aperture 32 is formed through the support member 20, the support
member 20 may be aligned with a restraining member 14, such as a crotch
strap 18, proximate the seating area 12 so that at least a portion of
restraining member 14 may be passed through the aperture 32. The user may
place the occupant into the seating area 12, on top of the support member
20. The restraining member 14 may then be secured about the occupant and
the system 10. The user may align one or more pocket members 34 with the
support member 20 before or after the occupant enters the seating area
12. If the one or more pocket members 34 are provided with additional
fastening mechanisms, then such mechanisms may be fastened to provide
additional support to the pocket members 34. Articles may be placed into
the one or more pocket members 34 either before the occupant occupies the
seating area 12 or after. Dividers 44 and/or inserts 50 may be placed
into one or more pocket members 34 as desired. The system 10 may be
removed from the seating area once the occupant has exited such area.
Where a support member 20 is not used, the aforementioned steps may be
employed, but for securing the support member 20 within the seating area
12. Rather the one or more pocket members 34 may be secured adjacent the
seating area 12 using the desired mechanical fasteners. In this manner,
the pocket members may be coupled with the seat structure before or after
the occupant enters the seating area 12. The system 10 may be folded and
stored in a compact space for use at a later time.

[0055]The support member 20 and/or pocket members 34 may be constructed
from flexible material, including washable fabric, water-repellant fabric
and other like materials that may allow the system to be efficiently
cleaned. This feature may allow the system 10 to be easily cleaned and
maintained. The use of a flexible material may also be less likely to
cause injury to a user in the event of a car accident, for example, when
compared to prior storage devices constructed of more rigid materials,
including plastic. The use of flexible materials may also allow the
system 10 to be easily stored and carried, such as in a stroller, diaper
bag or day-pack when it is not in use.

[0056]In one aspect, the support member 20 may be covered with a material
that is gentle to a child's skin while the pocket members 34 may be
formed of a durable, water-repellant fabric. The use of a non-irritating
material may be desirable for it may allow the system to be used by
multiple users, including children with sensitive skin. The use of
water-absorbent materials along the top surface of the support member 20
may also provide the benefit of wicking away moisture from various spills
and accidents, away from the occupant. Furthermore, it is contemplated
that various known padded materials may be incorporated within the design
of the support member 20 to provide additional comfort to the occupant.

[0057]In some embodiments, the method of manufacturing the system 10 may
include constructing a support member 20 by first cutting a base material
to a size that will allow the desired seating area 12 to be covered. For
example, the base material may be cut to approximately 23 inches in
length and approximately 6 to 18 inches in width. At least one of the
width or length of the base material may be determined by a particular
size of the seating area 12 presented (e.g., at least one of the width
and length of the base material may be determined by the amount of the
seating area 12 one desires to cover). The base material may, in at least
one embodiment, be approximately 10 inches in length and approximately 6
inches in width, weighing approximately 0.5 ounces to 1.0 ounces. The
base material may also be approximately 12 inches in width, weighing
approximately 1.0 ounces to 1.5 ounces.

[0058]In some embodiments, the support member 20 may also be formed by
folding the material inside out and fastening the edges of the material
lengthwise. The material may be folded in half, inside out, and the edges
of the material sewn together lengthwise. The material may also be
inverted a second time so that the finished side may be presented to the
user.

[0059]It is contemplated that the support member 20 may be formed, at
least in part, using a flexible material, such as a non-woven fabric
(e.g., PELLON®) or plastic, to provide stability or rigidity to the
support member 20. The dimensions of the flexible material may vary. For
instance, the flexible material may be approximately half the width of
the base material and be approximately 12 inches in length. The flexible
material may be inserted into a base material to provide the support
member 20 with additional rigidity while still providing a comfortable
surface on which the occupant may sit. For instance, the flexible
material may be inserted in the base material so that an equivalent
amount of material may be present on either end of the base material. A
flexible material may be used that includes an adhesive, such as a
heat-activated adhesive that may allow the flexible material to adhere to
the base material. This may allow additional rigidity to the support
member 20. An iron or other heating device may be used to activate the
heat sensitive adhesive. For instance, the heat sensitive adhesive may be
activated after the flexible material is inserted into the base material,
such as by use of an iron.

[0060]As described previously, various embodiments of the system 10 may
provide the support member 20 with an aperture 32 to receive at least a
portion of a restraining member 14, such as a crotch strap 18 or other
type of harness used to secure an occupant within the seating area 12. In
one aspect, the aperture 32 may be created by folding the support member
20, such as in half and making a cut, of a desired size, in the body of
the support member 20. In some embodiments, the cut may be approximately
4 inches in length and approximately 3 inches from the forward edge
portion 28 and sewn, such as button hole might be sewn, so that a portion
of the restraining member 14 may repeatedly travel through the aperture
32.

[0061]In various embodiments, the one or more pocket members 34 may be
created by cutting a desired material, such as various fabrics, to the
desired size and shape. In one aspect, two pocket members 34 may be
formed by cutting 8 front and back pieces of fabric, 6 inches wide by
41/2 inches tall, 8 side pieces, 3 inches wide by 41/2 inches tall, 4
bottom pieces, 6 inches wide by 3 inches tall, and 4 insert pockets, 33/4
inches by 33/4 inches. The material may be cut to provide a seam
allowance of approximately 5/8 inches. In some embodiments, each
assembled pocket member 34 may weigh approximately 3.5 ounces to 4.0
ounces. As such, one embodiment of the system 10 that includes a support
member 20 and one pocket member 34 may weight approximately 4.0 ounces to
5.0 ounces. Another embodiment of the system 10 that includes two pocket
members 34 and a support member 20 may weigh 7.5 ounces to 9.0 ounces.
Inserts 50 may also be formed to fit within the one or more pocket
members 34. The inserts 50 may be formed by cutting plastic or a
plastic-coated metal, such as by cutting plastic or plastic-coated metal
to be approximately 3 inches wide and 31/2 inches tall. It is further
contemplated that the inserts 50 may be formed to the desired shape and
size my one of Various molding techniques.

[0062]A pocket member 34 may be assembled by fastening the component
pieces with one another. It is contemplated that the order in which the
pieces are secured may be varied. For example, a back piece may be sewn
to two side pieces, a front piece may then be sewn to the two side
pieces, and a bottom piece may be sewn to the four pieces. A pocket
member 34 may be inverted and attached to another pocket member 34 that
has not been inverted. The two pocket structures may be fastened, such as
by stitching, so that one long side remains unsecured (e.g. opened). The
pieces of material may then be inverted while pushing one piece of
material into the other, thereby forming a lined pocket member 34. The
edge of the pocket member 34 may be finished by sewing the edge. The edge
may be finished while leaving one side of the edge open to attach the
pocket member 34 onto the base material. An additional line of stitching
may be made on the pocket member 34, for example, below the first line of
stitching while still leaving the one side open. A flexible material such
as elastic may be inserted through the opening between the two sewn
lines. This flexible material may be pulled slightly to gather the fabric
on the side. Such material may be secured in the pocket, such as by
fastening the corner where the flexible material was inserted. The
flexible material may also be inserted into the front and other side
pieces of the pocket member 34.

[0063]It is also contemplated that a variety of materials can be used to
construct the system 10 such as canvas, back pack ducking, flannel, heavy
cotton, denim, polyester and other like fabrics. For example, any
flexible material with sufficient rigidity to withstand multiple uses
and/or material that is non-invasive to the skin may be used. It is also
contemplated that the pocket members 34 could also be made from a
material similar to that used to construct the support member 20, or an
alternative material such as mesh or similar material. A thinner material
such as cotton or thin canvas may be used on the outside of the pocket
members 34 while using a more rigid material inside to keep the shape of
the pocket members 34. For example, flannel material may be used for the
support member 20 and canvas for the pocket members 34.

[0064]In some embodiments, additional materials may be employed to provide
further stability to the components of the system 10. For instance, hook
and loop fastening material or puffy shirt paint may be added to the
bottom and/or side of the support member 20 to help keep it in place.
Such material may also be added to the pocket members 34, if desired.
Fastening means such as hooks or latches may he attached to hold the
system 10 in place to the seat structure.

[0065]It is contemplated that variations may be made to the article holder
system so that it may fit any seat. For example, additional fastening
mechanisms such as snaps, hook and loop fastening material, hooks and
eyes or buckles may be fastened to the side of the support member 20 and
have the pocket members 34 individually attached to the desired location.
As such it is contemplated that the disclosed article holder system may
be used with not only a child's safety seat or stroller, but other
similar seating areas such as those provided in wheel chairs, shopping
carts, push cars, wagons, sit and stands, high chairs and booster seats.

[0066]Although the system 10 has been described in language that is
specific to certain structures, materials, and methodological steps, it
is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is
not necessarily limited to the specific structures, materials, and/or
steps described. Rather, the specific aspects and steps are described as
forms of implementing the claimed invention. Since many embodiments of
the invention can be practiced without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter
appended. Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions, such as
those expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, etc. used in the
specification (other than the claims) are understood as modified in all
instances by the term "approximately." At the very least, and not as an
attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the
claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims
which is modified by the term "approximately" should at least be
construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by
applying ordinary rounding techniques. Moreover, all ranges disclosed
herein are to be understood to encompass and provide support for claims
that recite any and all subranges or any and all individual values
subsumed therein. For example, a stated range of 1 to 10 should be
considered to include and provide support for claims that recite any and
all subranges or individual values that are between and/or inclusive of
the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all
subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a
maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 5.5 to 10, 2.34 to 3.56, and so forth)
or any values from 1 to 10 (e.g., 3, 5.8, 9.9994, and so forth).